Dr. Elwynn Taylor, ISU Extension climatologist, explains to more than 250 farmers and industry professionals, the 2013 growing season is matching up to the 1947 crop year, which became one of the six worse cropping years in Iowa's history.

HUMBOLDT More than 250 producers and industry professionals turned out for a prevented planting meeting in Humboldt on Friday.

The meeting was conducted to help provide answers to producers and industry professionals about what steps need to be taken with the delayed planting.

“Some of our biggest concerns are understanding our deadlines for reporting things, also crop insurance and the agronomic side of things on how we can produce the best crop from here on out,” said Brent Kuehnast, a Humboldt-area farmer

John Holmes, a field agronomist with Iowa State University, discussed later planting options for corn and soybeans as well as what can be expected throughout the rest of the spring.

According to an ISU study, Holmes said if producers are considering planting corn after June 11, it is recommended to look at using a 93 to 98 day hybrid and after June 25. Average yield of planting on that date, according to the research, was 99.6 bushels per acre compared to 187 bushels per acre when planted on April 30 through mid-May.

“Some of our biggest concerns are understanding our deadlines for reporting things, also crop insurance and the agronomic side of things on how we can produce the best crop from here on out.” —Brant Kuehnast Humboldt-area farmer

Holmes told attendees to consider that some corn herbicides applied to the soil may prevent soybeans from being planted and the possible yield potential that comes along with planting beans on beans, skipping the rotation of corn.

Humboldt County FSA Executive Director Gary Yoch spoke to the group about programs and upcoming deadlines for registering crops.

When it comes to switching acres over to another crop, Yoch said the rules are pretty friendly right now and suggested producers report consistently to the FSA what they are reporting to their crop insurance agent.

“So before you certify, talk to your crop insurance agent first before certifying preventive failed corn,” said Yoch.

As far as disaster relief, Yoch said nothing has been put into place, but counties have been reporting what has been going on, which gets the ball rolling for legislation to be made, but he is not guaranteeing that will be done.

Allison Orr, district conservationist with the NRCS in Humboldt, said her office is prepared to help producers with any cover cropping needs if the planting delays continue and they are unable to get their crops planted.

“We can help you develop a mix for you that will best suit your needs,” she said.